BRATTLEBORO-During a challenging period for Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, our staff members continue to demonstrate professionalism, dedication, and commitment to patient care. That work deserves respect — and it deserves accurate information.
Some claims circulating publicly by the Brattleboro Federation of Nurses (BFN) are incorrect. Here are the facts.
In FY2025, BMH administration received a 4% wage increase, consistent with other non-represented employees, excluding physicians. Members of the BFN union received a 7% wage increase. No bonuses were paid to current BMH administration, and no additional retirement contributions were made.
Context matters. As was cited in a recent post from BFN, since January 2021, the cost of living in Vermont has increased by 17.8%. During that same period, BMH has increased registered nurse base wages by 34% and licensed practical nurse base wages by 40%. Additionally, BMH provides shift and specialty differentials and bonuses that are consistently above market levels.
The proposed budget submitted to the Green Mountain Care Board (GMCB) calls for a 0% wage increase for all BMH employees, reflecting the financial constraints the hospital continues to navigate.
We respect the role unions play in representing their members. At the same time, trust depends on accuracy. Misinformation undermines productive dialogue and distracts from what matters most — patient care and mutual support.
BMH continues to strengthen financial oversight and long-term planning so we can remain stable, responsible, and transparent while serving our community.
We welcome direct questions and honest dialogue. Transparency is essential.
Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Brattleboro
Elizabeth McLarney, M.D. and Tony Blofson, M.D., acting chief executive officers
This letter to the editor was submitted to The Commons.
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